A change in the law.

You need a TV Licence for

As of 1 September 2016, a change in the law means you need to be covered by a TV Licence to download or watch BBC programmes on demand – including catch up TV – on BBC iPlayer. This applies to all devices, including a smart TV, desktop computer or laptop, mobile phone, tablet, digital box or games console.

Even if you access BBC iPlayer through another provider, such as Sky, Virgin Media, Freeview or BT, you must have a TV Licence.

As before, you still need a TV Licence to watch or record any live TV on any channel, no matter what device you use.

For more details go to tvlicensing.co.uk/lawchange Answers to your questions.

What does ‘on demand’ mean? Any programme you download or watch that is not being shown as live TV – including catch up TV. These programmes can be accessed on a website or through an app on a smart TV, digital box or any other device. On demand can also include exclusive programmes that are only available online.

Do I need a TV Licence for everything on BBC iPlayer? You need to be covered by a licence for just about every programme on BBC iPlayer (including the Radio 1 video channel). There are currently just two exceptions – watching S4C TV on demand and listening to radio. There may be other exceptions in the future.

What if I use other services such as Sky Go, All 4 or ITV Hub? You’ve always needed a TV Licence to watch all live TV through services like these. But, if you only ever use them to watch programmes on demand, then you don’t need a licence.

Does this law change mean I only need a TV Licence if I watch BBC channels? No. Just as before, you need a licence to watch or record live TV on any channel on any device. The change in the law means you now need a licence if you download or watch BBC programmes on demand on BBC iPlayer.

Do I now have to pay extra or get a second TV Licence? No. One licence covers you to watch or record all live TV, and to download or watch on demand programmes on BBC iPlayer.

Can I be prosecuted for watching BBC programmes on BBC iPlayer without a licence? Yes. From 1 September 2016, you risk prosecution and a fine of up to £1,000* plus any legal costs and/or compensation you may be ordered to pay.

For more details go to tvlicensing.co.uk/lawchange

*The maximum fine is £2,000 in Guernsey and £500 in Jersey.

BOD/INS/07/16/E